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    2022 Honda CB300R Launch Price Rs 2.77 L – Two New Colours

    2022 Honda CB300RIn its BS4 format, the Honda CB300R was priced at Rs 2.41 lakh – Now, in BS6 format it is priced at Rs 2.77 lakh
    Honda has finally launched the BS6 iteration of CB300R in India at an introductory price of Rs 2.77 lakh (ex-showroom). The street naked bike went off the shelves after emission norms were updated from BS4 to BS6 standards in April 2020. The bike made its maiden appearance at the recently concluded India Bike Week in Dec 2020.
    The Japanese bikemaker first launched CB300R in India in 2019 but was discontinued a year later. 2022 Honda CB300R localization content is higher than before. Even the new BS6 compliant engine is being developed by the company at its Gujarat-based plant.
    2022 Honda CB300R- Styling
    The 2022 CB300R is essentially the same bike as the discontinued BS4 model with subtle revisions to its styling even though the overall design has been kept intact. Mild updates like a black headlamp bezel (for black colour variant) and darker radiator cowls give the bike a fresh appeal. The blacked-out internals and running gear give the motorcycle a sporty dual-tone theme.
    Other notable styling highlights include a neo-retro LED headlamp, a sculpted fuel tank, exposed frame, rugged-styled engine guard, chunky upswept exhaust and split-style seats. The exhaust will be laced with chrome accents thus providing a premium look to the bike. 2022 CB300R will be available in two colour options namely Candy Chromosphere Red and Matte Axis Grey Metallic.
    2022 Honda CB300R Specs
    Features on offer
    There is no change in the list of features on offer in the BS6 CB300R as the equipment remains modest. Some of the noteworthy features offered include all-LED lighting, a blue backlit LCD dash on the instrument console and a USB charging port. At this price point, smartphone connectivity and navigation should have been part of the package.
    Mr. Yadvinder Singh Guleria, Director – Sales & Marketing, Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India Pvt. Ltd. said, “Wait is finally over for the CB300R in its new 2022 avatar. A fun ride on city-streets and lightest in its class, new CB300R comes with Assist & Slipper clutch which reduces fatigue and Golden Upside Down Forks which offer riding precision and enhanced sporty appeal.”
    Mechanical Specs
    Powering CB300R is a BS6 compliant 286cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled, engine that makes 31 bhp at 9,000rpm and a peak torque of 27.5 Nm at 6,500rpm. This motor is paired with a 6-speed transmission via a slipper and assist clutch.
    Cycle parts of CV300R have also been left untouched with a Showa suspension setup comprising gold anodised USD front forks and link-type mono-shock at rear. The golden-coloured front forks also add to the bike’s aesthetic appeal. Braking duties are handled by single disc brakes at both ends with callipers from Nissin. The braking hardware is assisted by a dual-channel ABS setup as standard.
    Just like its predecessor, new 2022 Honda CB300R will be retailed via the company’s Big Wing outlets. With more BigWing showrooms across the country, CB300R is expected to have a better reach among the masses this time. More

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    Ola Electric Scooter Owner Gets 187 Kms Range – Higher Than ARAI Claim

    Image – Paresh PatilIn comparison to ARAI certified range, true range of electric two-wheelers can vary by around 25-40%
    One of the most ambitious EV projects in the country, Ola Electric has been facing numerous challenges such as delay in deliveries, unsatisfactory range and issues with post-sales services. However, the company can take heart from the fact that positive owner reviews have also started to pour in.
    Ola S1 Pro 187 km range reported
    An Ola S1 Pro user has reported that he recently achieved 165 kms range. Battery remaining was 14%, which equals range of 22 kms. When added, overall range comes at 187 kms. The user has provided additional details that he weighs 82 kg and was riding in Bengaluru where temperature was around 25 to 28 degrees Celsius.
    Total load on the scooter was around 100 kg including the rider. The user had used the scooter in various environments including highways, city streets with traffic and bylanes.
    Riding stats for the day displayed on instrument console show that the scooter was driven at an average speed of 27 kmph. Top speed was 46 kmph. It is likely that use of regenerative braking system has allowed the user to achieve higher than ARAI certified range. Official ARAI range is 121 km for Ola S1 and 181 km for S1 Pro. Claimed true range for S1 Pro is 135 km.
    Ola Electric Scooter Owner Gets 187 Kms Range
    Ola Electric CEO Bhavish Aggarwal has responded by saying that true range can touch even 200 km if the regenerative system is used most optimally. Regenerative braking system works by converting kinetic energy into electrical energy, which is then used to recharge the battery.
    Regenerative braking can make tangible difference to range in specific environments such as going downhill and city traffic conditions. The brakes are frequently engaged in such conditions.
    As may be recalled, Ola Electric had earlier described a set of conditions that need to be met to achieve the true range of 135 km for S1 Pro. It includes rider weight of 70 kg, incline of 3-5%, Normal ride mode and temperature range of 24-35° Celsius. However, based on recent owner review, it appears that true range can be much higher with use of regenerative braking.
    Ola Electric scooter reng braking to help increase range
    Second Purchase Window to Open
    Ola Electric is getting ready to open its second purchase window. This has been revealed by Company’s CEO, Bhavish Aggarwal, on Twitter, though no exact date has been announced. Aggarwal has also stated that production has been stepped up to almost 1,000 scooters a day being produced at the company’s Futurefactory. This will allow for more timely delivery through Ola’s unique ‘Direct-to-customer’ approach.
    Ola S1 and S1 Pro are priced at Rs 99,999 and Rs 1,29,999 respectively (ex-showroom Bengaluru). They are powered by an 8.5 kW motor. ARAI has certified the range of the Ola S1 at 121 kms per charge and for the S1 Pro at 181 kms per charge. More

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    Yezdi Teases 3 New Motorcycles For Launch – Roadking, ADV, Cruiser

    Yezdi motorcycle renderIt will be another dream come true for enthusiasts, as legendary Yezdi motorcycles will be back in action soon in their new avatar
    After Jawa, Classic Legends is looking to create yet another success story with the Yezdi nameplate. Initially, three Yezdi bikes are expected to be launched. One of these will be Roadking scrambler, while the 2nd will be an Adv motorcycle and the 3rd will be a cruiser.
    As per the latest teaser, Yezdi will launch 3 new motorcycles, and not 2, as previously expected. Test mules of these bikes have been spotted quite frequently in recent weeks. Official launch of Yezdi motorcycles is tomorrow, on January 13, 2022.
    Yezdi motorcycles – design and features
    Yezdi motorcycles have neo-retro styling, something that is common across various brands in this segment including Royal Enfield, Jawa, Honda and Benelli. By combining the best of both worlds, it becomes easier to target enthusiasts with varying tastes and preferences. Retro bits are evident in features such as round headlamp and taillight, teardrop-shaped fuel tank and spoke wheels.
    Yezdi bikes appear capable of tackling city streets as well as off-road tracks. Some common features include wide handlebar, upswept exhaust and dual-purpose tyres. The Adv is apparently better equipped for the trails with features such as large windscreen, knuckle guards, and dedicated engine and radiator guard. The bike’s digital instrument console is wrapped in a rugged, shock-proof casing. It has racks at front and rear for cargo.
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    Users can expect comfortable riding stance on both Yezdi bikes. The Adv can do relatively better in this department, as it has taller handlebar, low seat height and centrally placed footpegs. Yezdi Adv has wider seat in comparison to the lean unit on Roadking scrambler.
    To reduce development and production cost, Yezdi motorcycles are expected to borrow several of the hardware bits from Jawa motorcycles. For example, the engine could be the 334cc unit currently being used for Jawa Perak. Mated to a 6-speed gearbox, the engine churns out 30.64 ps of max power and 32.74 Nm of peak torque.
    Standard telescopic forks will be common for both bikes. At rear, Roadking scrambler will have dual shock absorbers while Adv comes with a monoshock unit. Disk brakes at both ends will be common for Yezdi motorcycles. Dual-channel ABS is expected to be offered as standard.
    BSA Gold Star 650 next
    Classic Legends has plans to strengthen its presence in international markets as well. For that, BSA Gold Star 650 motorcycle is currently under development. The original Gold Star was a popular bike in UK several decades earlier, when it was offered with 350cc and 500cc engine. Gold Star gets bigger in its 21st century avatar, sporting a 650cc motor. It is likely to be launched first in UK. It could be introduced in India at a later date.
    Powering Gold Star will be a 652cc motor that generates 45 hp / 55 Nm. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. In international markets, BSA Gold Star will primarily take on Royal Enfield 650 twins. Other rivals include Triumph Street Twin and Kawasaki W800. More

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    TVS Apache 165 First Owners Start Taking Delivery – Exhaust Note

    TVS Apache 165 Deliveries StartDesigned to dominate the race track, TVS Apache 165 RP adds some more fun to entry-level performance-oriented biking segment
    For users who want to get a feel of racetrack experience, TVS had launched Apache 165 RP (Race Performance) earlier this month. Only 200 units are on offer, most of which have already been booked. The bike is available at a starting price of Rs 1.45 lakh (Ex-showroom).
    Apache 165 RP packs in a range of upgrades in comparison to Apache RTR 160 4V. Deliveries of the more powerful Apache 165 have now started. First owners have started taking delivery. Here’s a quick comparison, detailing all the key differences between TVS Apache 165 RP vs. 160 4V.
    TVS Apache 165 Deliveries Start
    There is no change in the basic design of 165 RP. The only difference is that it gets a new race-inspired Sepang Blue colour theme. It’s essentially an exciting combo of blue, red and white against blacked-out bits. The bike also gets TVS racing decals and customized limited edition stickering. In comparison, Apache 160 4V has four colour options of Matte Black, Knight Black, Metallic Blue and Racing Red.
    1. Engine – 165 RP is powered by a 164.9cc motor. In comparison, 160 4V has a 159.7cc motor. With the larger capacity engine, power output is increased to 19.2 ps at 10,000 rpm. This is the highest power output in 150-160cc motorcycle segment. Below is a short video by Nisha Auto Vlogs, which shows the new TVS Apache 165 along with its exhaust note.
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    2. Power – Max power output of 160 4V is at 17.55 ps at 9,250 rpm. This is available in Sport mode. It is to note that ride modes of Sport, Urban / Rain is only available with 160 4V. In terms of torque, 160 4V fares slight better at 14.73 Nm, as compared to 14.2 Nm of 165 RP.
    3. Performance – For agile performance, 165 RP gets features such as larger valves, dome shaped piston, high-lift cams and dual actuator springs. It also gets slipper clutch. Both 165 RP and 160 4V have 5-speed gearbox.
    4. Suspension and brakes – 165 RP gets race tuned telescopic forks at front and rear monoshock unit, both from Showa. In comparison, 160 4V is offered with standard telescopic forks and monoshock suspension.
    5. Brakes – Braking duties onboard 165 RP are performed by 270 mm disc at front and 240 mm disc at rear. 160 4V disc variant has 270 mm front and 200 mm rear disc brake. Both bikes have single-channel ABS as standard.
    6. Dimensions and weight – Both bikes are exactly the same in terms of length, width, height and wheelbase. In terms of weight, 165 RP is 2 kg heavier than 160 4V disc variant. The latter weighs 146 kg.
    7. Power to weight ratio – Although 165 RP is heavier, it has better power to weight ratio of 0.129 ps/kg. In comparison, 160 4V has 0.119 ps/kg.
    8. Top speed – Apache 165 RP has top speed of 123 kmph. In comparison, 160 4V tops at 114 kmph in Sport mode. In Urban / Rain mode, top speed is reduced to 103 kmph.
    Apache 165 RP vs. Apache 160 4V price
    Apache 165 RP is approximately Rs 25k costlier than 160 4V. Disc variant of 160 4V is available at a starting price of Rs 1.17 lakh whereas the special edition costs Rs 1.21 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). More

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    2022 Yamaha MT15 Launch Soon – New Features, Bluetooth Update

    2022 Yamaha MT15 Facelift to get Bluetooth / updatesUpdates for MT15 will be mostly borrowed from Yamaha R15 V4 that was launched last year in September
    One of the popular entry-level performance-oriented bikes in the country, Yamaha MT15 will soon be updated with new features. This was expected as MT15 and R15 V4 are essentially the same at their core. The difference between the bikes comes primarily from their styling and riding ergonomics.
    2022 Yamaha MT15 expected updates
    One of the key updates will be a new digital instrument panel with Bluetooth-based connectivity features. This is likely to be the same as that of R15 V4. It displays a range of information such as traction control on/off, gear position, gear shift timing indicator, Track/Street mode, lap timings, average mileage, average speed, coolant temperature, etc.
    Users can pair their smartphones with the console using Y-Connect app. Once connected, the instrument cluster screen will display info such as call alert, SMS and email notification, phone battery level and app connectivity status.
    On Y-Connect app, users can access a range of info such as fuel consumption tracker, last parking location, revs dashboard, malfunction notification, maintenance recommendations and ride analytics. Basic idea is to improve overall experience, ensure proper bike care & maintenance and possibly help users improve their riding skills.
    2021 Yamaha MT-15 Monster Energy Moto GP Edition
    Another key update for MT15 will be USD forks at front. In its current form, the bike is offered with standard telescopic forks. Rear linked-type monocross suspension will be the same as current model. USD forks significantly enhance ride dynamics by ensuring better control and handling at high speed, cornering and during braking. USD forks on R15 V4 are offered in a golden finish.
    Dual-channel ABS is another feature that could be introduced for MT-15. As of now, the bike is offered with single-channel ABS. Braking duties are performed by 282 mm disc at front and 220 mm disc at rear. The bike has 17-inch wheels at both ends, shod with 100/80 front and 140/70 wide rear tyre.
    Yamaha could introduce some style updates for MT-15, but much of it will be the same as current model. The bike makes a sporty, aggressive stance with features such as bi-functional LED headlights, blacked-out elements, sculpted fuel tank, rugged engine guard, chrome-tipped exhaust, uni-level seat with grab bar and raised LED tail light.
    Yamaha MT15 engine
    Engine will be same as current model, a 155cc, liquid cooled, SOHC, 4-valve unit. It generates 18.5 ps of max power at 10,000 rpm and 13.9 Nm of peak torque at 8,500 rpm. It is mated to a constant mesh 6-speed gearbox.
    Other features such as variable valve actuation (VVA) and assist and slipper clutch (ASC) will be same. VVA ensures that desired power and torque is available throughout the rev range. ASC reduces driver fatigue by minimizing force required for clutch pull and ensuring smooth downshifts. MT15 is currently available in the range of Rs 1.47 lakh to Rs 1.50 lakh. Updated 2022 MT15 could get costlier by up to Rs 10k.
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    Royal Enfield Prices Jan 2022 Increased – Classic 350, Meteor, Himalayan

    Image – An ExplorerIt is likely that increase in input costs has prompted Royal Enfield to hike prices of its motorcycles
    In line with industry trends, Royal Enfield has increased prices of its motorcycles in the first month of the year. Global supply chain has been adversely impacted due to pandemic, resulting in shortage of several raw materials and components. Shift to stricter emission norms is also responsible for price hikes in automotive space.
    Royal Enfield Prices Jan 2022 – Classic 350, Meteor 350
    Royal Enfield’s top-selling bike Classic 350 has witnessed a price hike of up to Rs 3,332. Classic 350 starting price is now Rs 1,87,246 for Redditch variant. New prices of other variants are Halcyon (Rs 1,95,125), Signals (Rs 2,07,539), Dark (Rs 2,14,743) and Chrome (Rs 2,18,450). As may be recalled, new-gen Classic 350 was launched last year in the price range of Rs 1.84 lakh to Rs 2.15 lakh.
    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 Prices – Jan 2022
    Royal Enfield Meteor 350 price hike is around the same as that of Classic 350. Starting price is now Rs 2,01,620 for Fireball (Red, Yellow). New prices of other variants are Fireball (White, Black) – Rs 2,03,456; Stellar (Blue, Red, Black) – Rs 2,07,700; Stellar (Pure Black) – Rs 2,09,537; Supernova (Brown, Blue) – Rs 2,17,836; and Supernova (Silver, Beige Custom) – Rs 2,19,674.
    Royal Enfield Himalayan new prices
    Royal Enfield Himalayan prices in January 2022 have been increased in the range of Rs 4,103 to Rs 4,253. Himalayan starting price is now Rs 2,14,887 for Mirage Silver and Gravel Gray. Lake Blue and Rock Red are available at Rs 2,18,706 whereas Granite Black and Pine Green will cost Rs 2,22,526.
    Royal Enfield Classic 350 and Himalayan Prices – Jan 2022
    Earlier, Royal Enfield had increased prices of Himalayan and Meteor in September last year. At that time, all variants of Meteor had become costlier by Rs 7k. In percentage terms, the price hike was in the range of 3.36% to 3.64%. Himalayan prices were increased by a flat rate of Rs 5k for all variants. Percentage increase was in the range of 2.34% to 2.43%.
    No updates
    No new changes have been introduced for any of these Royal Enfield bikes. New-gen Classic 350 was launched last year with several enhancements including a new chassis and new engine. It has resulted in significant improvements in terms of reduced vibrations and ride dynamics. The first Royal Enfield bike to benefit from these updates was Meteor 350 that was launched in November 2020.
    Both new-gen Classic 350 and Meteor 350 share the same 350cc engine. It generates max power of 20.2 bhp and peak torque of 27 Nm. It is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Next-gen versions of other Royal Enfield 350cc bikes will also be getting these updates.
    Himalayan is equipped with a 411cc motor that delivers 24.3 bhp and 32 Nm. Transmission is a 5-speed constant mesh unit. In future, Royal Enfield will be expanding Himalayan range to include multiple new products.
    One of these will be Himalayan 450, which will be positioned as a premium Adv bike. It will take on rivals such as KTM 390 Adventure and BMW G310GS. Himalayan 450 will be utilizing an entirely new platform. It is expected to deliver around 40 bhp of max power. More

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    2022 KTM 390 ADV Launched In The US – India Launch Soon

    2022 KTM 390 ADV
    Upon launch, the updated KTM 390 Duke is likely to command a slight premium over the existing model
    KTM has always been known to keep updating its models in order to keep its lineup fresh and attractive. The Austrian bikemaker has launched an updated 2022 version of 390 Adventure in the American market. The latest iteration of the adventure bike has been priced at USD 6600 (equivalent to INR 4.91 lakh) in the USA.
    For 2022, KTM has offered some aesthetic as well as functional updates to the naked streetfighter. The updates are subtle yet noticeable and visually in line with the Dakar winning KTM FACTORY RALLY machines. The updated iteration of 390 Adventure is expected to hit showrooms in India very soon in the coming few weeks.
    2022 KTM 390 ADV – Updated Styling
    In terms of design, the 2022 KTM 390 ADV is identical to the current model flaunting the same rugged styling adventure bikes are known for. It, however, gets two new colour options- a grey-black scheme and a blue scheme, both offered with orange accents and body graphics. These paint options have been inspired by the larger KTM models.
    Other subtle styling updates include new tank shrouds and rear side panels which are slightly wider than the seat to provide better control to the rider. It also reduces wear and tear of the seat. Shape of the fuel tank has also been optimised to ensure freedom of rider’s movement and control. Headlight mask of the new 390 ADV has been reduced to make a lightweight front end.
    2022 KTM 390 ADV
    Updated Features & Hardware
    In addition, the front fender has been set lower which provides better aerodynamics. As far as features are concerned, it gets the same equipment as before. This includes a fully coloured TFT instrument display enabled with smartphone connectivity, an adjustable windscreen, all-LED lighting, optional turn-by-turn navigation and a standard 12V charging port.
    KTM has made some updates to the hardware of the 390 Adventure. The most prominent of those is new cast aluminium wheels which get five spokes instead of six. As a result of this, the wheels are now more resistant to impact and also add to the stiffness of the bike. Suspension setup remains identical and features non-adjustable inverted front forks and a WP Apex mono-shock at rear.
    Braking duties are handled by single disc brakes at both ends aided by a dual-channel ABS with offroad mode. Another crucial update for the new 390 ADV includes new traction control settings for both street and off-road. This setting enables different rear-slips based on the terrain.
    Powertrain Specs
    No updates have been made to the powertrain department of the new 390 Adventure. Powering the motorcycle is the same 373.2cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled motor that pumps out 42.3 bhp and a peak torque of 37 Nm. This engine is married to a six-speed gearbox which comes with a standard bi-directional quick-shifter. More

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    Suzuki Avenis Is 6 Millionth Vehicle To Rollout Of SMIPL Gurugram Plant

    New Suzuki Avenis deliveries are yet to startSuzuki Motorcycle India rolls out 6 millionth vehicle, a celebratory Suzuki Avenis scooter units from its Gurugram plant
    Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt. Ltd. (SMIPL) has rolled out its 6 millionth vehicle at its Kherki Dhaula, Gurugram manufacturing facility. The 6th millionth celebratory unit is a Suzuki Avenis. This being Suzuki’s newest product launch, available at a starting price of around Rs 87k. With a launch in late 2021, deliveries of the 125cc scooter are set to begin anytime now.
    SMIPL sells Access 125, Gixxer 250 and 150 series, and Burgman Street in India. Avenis 125cc scooter being the newest addition to the manufacturer’s product portfolio. Suzuki already enjoys a growing market share in the 125cc segment, and this is expected to further improve with the launch of Suzuki Avenis.
    Suzuki December 2021 sales
    Despite much lower volumes than manufacturers that sit atop the sales chart, Suzuki two-wheelers has been steady at the marketplace. The company considers India an important market considering its contribution to Suzuki’s global motorcycles sales volume.
    Though its product portfolio isn’t elaborate, its products are well thought out when it comes to segment reach. The company retail sales in December 2021 at 42,609 units. YoY decline is reported at 6 percent, down from 45,332 units at volume decline of 2,723 units.
    Suzuki Avenis
    Sales were enough to place Suzuki above Royal Enfield, and Yamaha last month. MoM decline is reported at 13 percent, down from 49k units. It’s sales numbers place it outside of the top 4 two-wheeler manufacturers in the country but above all others on most months.
    Suzuki’s 15 years in India
    Satoshi Uchida, Managing Director, Suzuki Motorcycle India Pvt. Ltd. said, “This year marks the completion of Suzuki Motorcycle India’s 15 years in the country. It is indeed heartening to also announce the roll out of our 6 millionth Suzuki two-wheeler product in India from our Gurugram plant.
    We are grateful to all our customers for their trust and loyalty that they have shown in the brand. I would also like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all our dealer partners and suppliers who have continuously supported us by ensuring and delivering the quality products and services. All these efforts helped us to retain the customers’ long-term belief in the brand, Suzuki two-wheelers.
    This 6 millionth milestone is a testament to our continued commitment to provide superior value to our customers in India. We are delighted that we could reach this landmark despite the challenges thrown by the second wave and the global semiconductor shortage across the world.” More